Things to Do in Los Angeles

Like a real jungle, Scooter’s Jungle is full of vibrant colors and potential for adventure; unlike a real jungle, however, most of its attractions are inflatable. Named for its tropical theme, the indoor family-fun center’s inflatables range from gargantuan slides and a zip line to an obstacle course, where kids can build the agility necessary to finally outrun their shadows. For a break from the pillowy structures, kids can play ping-pong and air hockey at the free game tables, or nosh on pizza during private birthday parties.

The Acting Corps, a school endorsed by Oscar winner Sydney Pollack as well as Rainn Wilson of The Office, takes a modern approach to acting instruction. In classes with an average of 16 students, creativity flows unimpeded and students overhear the whispered names of Hollywood’s best agents quite clearly. Actors with MFA degrees lead programs that help acting students find an authentic style, and also pilot advanced classes with mock auditions that challenge experienced actors. Four- or six-week acting boot camps incorporate aspects of the Meisner technique and the Michael Chekhov technique. In classes engineered for international acting students, teachers elucidate methods for developing a convincing American accent or faking a convincing cheeseburger craving.

With 30 years' experience choreographing fight sequences for television and film, competitive-fencing instructor Tim Weske leads Swordplay Fencing Studio's intrepid teachers in demystifying the art of the sword for students. His combat choreography sequences have touched films and TV shows as diverse as I Love You, Man and Angel, and he has safely instructed celebrities such as Natalie Portman and Brad Pitt to convincingly parry with their onscreen opponents and dual for red-carpet supremacy.

At Swordplay Fencing Studio, once-a-week group sessions or private lessons in foil, épée, and saber provide pupils with fun workouts by engaging minds with subtle strategy while burning calories, increasing agility, and building muscle tone. Afternoon and evening sessions are held Monday through Saturday to fit hectic jobs and busy mornings repainting the neighbors' lawn flamingos.